Seagulls in Brittany: Sterilization Loses Steam and Population Declines

Published on April 28, 2026 | Translated from Spanish

The controversial measure of sterilizing seagull eggs on the Breton coast, designed to curb the overpopulation of this bird, is now being applied less frequently. Criticism from environmentalists and doubts about its real effectiveness have reduced its use, while the number of specimens plummets, reigniting the debate on the true impact of human intervention.

Seagulls flying over a lighthouse on the Breton coast, with empty nests and unhatched eggs in the foreground.

Avian control technology: alternative methods in development 🛸

Given the decline of the sterilization method, technical alternatives are being explored, such as geolocation systems to monitor colonies, drones that deter without harming, and algorithms that predict birth peaks. These tools seek a balance between urban waste management and species preservation. However, their implementation requires funding and local studies that have not yet been completed.

Seagulls on strike: they don't breed enough to be sterilized 😂

It seems the seagulls have taken their revenge in their own way. After years of oil on their eggs, they now refuse to lay enough. Technicians, sprayer in hand, are left staring at empty nests. Perhaps they should make an appointment. Meanwhile, pigeons take advantage to occupy the vacant niche, like squatters of the sky.